A Perfect Sweet Treat for Post-Iftar Tea
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Şekerpare, a traditional Turkish dessert that is both syrupy and crispy. Perfect for enjoying with tea after iftar, this dessert combines a buttery, crumbly texture with a sweet, lemon-infused syrup, making it an irresistible treat. Easy to prepare and immensely satisfying, Şekerpare is sure to become a favorite.
Equipment Needed
To make this delicious Şekerpare, you will need the following equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 125g room temperature butter
- 1 egg
- 1 tea glass (about 100ml) semolina
- 1 tea glass (about 100ml) powdered sugar
- 1 tea glass (about 100ml) vegetable oil
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 packet baking powder
- 2 cups flour (add gradually)
For the Syrup:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2.5 cups water
- 1-2 drops lemon juice
- 1 slice lemon
For the Topping:
- Hazelnuts or pistachios
Instructions:
- Prepare the Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar.
- Without turning on the heat, stir the sugar until it begins to dissolve.
- Turn on the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Once it starts boiling, add a few drops of lemon juice and the lemon slice.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, egg, semolina, powdered sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix well until smooth.
- Gradually add the flour, vanilla sugar, and baking powder, mixing until you form a soft, non-sticky dough. Add the flour slowly to ensure the right consistency.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Shape and Bake the Şekerpare:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Take small pieces of dough, slightly larger than a walnut, and roll them into balls.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking tray, spacing them slightly apart.
- Press a hazelnut or pistachio into the center of each dough ball.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on them.
- Soak in Syrup:
- Once the Şekerpare are baked, remove them from the oven.
- While they are still hot, submerge each piece in the cooled syrup, then transfer to another dish.
- Pour any remaining syrup over the Şekerpare to ensure they are well-soaked.
- Serve:
- Allow the Şekerpare to soak in the syrup for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your traditional Şekerpare! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and share your experience.
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